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As winter sets in and the festive season arrives, families often look forward to joyful traditions, cosy gatherings, and the excitement of Christmas. For families with autistic and ADHD children, these months can bring both unique challenges and opportunities for connection. Thoughtful and flexible planning and clear communication can help winter holidays can become positive, memorable experience for everyone.
Winter brings its own rhythms: shorter days, colder weather, and celebrations that may feel overwhelming or unfamiliar for neurodivergent children. Embrace the season by honouring your child’s needs and creating affirming traditions that suit your family. Whether it’s baking together, winter walks wrapped up warm (or not for some of our young people), or decorating slowly over days, flexibility and predictability help build comfort and enjoyment.
Considerate planning makes festive outings and gatherings more enjoyable for autistic and ADHD children. Consider visiting local attractions during quieter times, choosing sensory-friendly events, and preparing your child for what to expect. Social stories, visual schedules, and previewing locations online can ease anxieties. For family gatherings, discussing your child’s needs with relatives ahead of time ensures understanding and support. Have a sensory safety kit with calming strategies, headphones and other safe items, activities and foods should your child need them. Look out for relaxed performances of pantomimes if your family needs them.
Christmas celebrations can be loud, busy, and packed with surprises. Adapt traditions to suit your family’s needs- open gifts gradually, create quiet zones, and offer alternatives to large gatherings if needed. Sensory tools, breaks, and personal “escape plans” give children (and adults) space to recharge. Remember, it’s perfectly fine to do things your own way, and sometimes a peaceful holiday at home is just right.
Traditional winter meals might include new, unfamiliar or strong-tasting foods. Involve your child in menu planning; offer familiar favourites alongside festive options. Celebrate small wins and respect food preferences. Family mealtimes can be meaningful even without a traditional Christmas roast. There are lots of non-food advent calendars that children can enjoy, or you can have a “fill your own” that comes out each year.
Autistic and ADHD children often thrive on routine, and the festive season brings many changes–school holidays, visitors, decorations, and new activities. Prepare your child for these changes with countdown calendars, regular check-ins, and reassurance that it’s okay to feel different emotions during the holidays. Flexibility and understanding from adults go a long way.
Above all, winter holidays and Christmas are opportunities for creating joyful memories at your own pace and in your own style. Celebrate the moments that matter to your family, cherish quiet times together, and remember that there’s no “right” way to enjoy the season. By supporting your child with preparation, choices, and compassion, you’re building lasting memories for everyone.
Wishing you a warm, peaceful, and joyful festive season. May it be filled with comfort, laughter, and affirming experiences for your whole family.
